The Mission Community Services Christmas Bureau operations are in full swing this week, and donations are starting to come in, according to organizer Phil Hope.
About 400 families and individuals have registered to receive a hamper so far, and Hope expects that number to double by Christmas.
Every little bit of help and donation will support the Christmas Bureau in its efforts to bring some holiday cheer to those who are down on their luck this time of year.
“We gratefully accept new gifts, non-perishable foods and monetary donations,” said Hope, noting tax receipts are available when you give cash.
Angel trees are also going up around the community.
Last Thursday’s Rotary Carol Festival brought in 500 pounds of food and about $700 for the organization.
Numerous other events are being planned to benefit the Christmas Bureau this month and you can also bring your donations to the Candlelight Parade Friday. Volunteers will be walking along the parade route collecting any contribution you would like to make.
The West Coast Express Santa Trains will run Dec. 8 and Dec. 15. Bring a new toy for the Christmas Bureau in exchange for a train ticket. The train leaves Mission at 10 a.m. and will depart Vancouver’s Waterfront station at 4 p.m. Santa will be on board and at Waterfront station from 3 to 4 p.m. for photos.
The Fireman’s Ride in Mission will take place Dec. 12 and Dec. 13. The route in Mission on the first night will be north of Cherry Avenue on both sides of Cedar Street. Firefighters will be travelling between Cade Bar and Stave Lake Street from 11 Avenue to Cherry Avenue on the second night collecting donations.
If your house has been missed, you can drop off your donations during business hours at fire station one on Seventh Avenue.
Donations can also be brought to The Record office, 33047 First Ave., and the Christmas Bureau at the Junction (between Urban Planet and the dental office) Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information about the MCS Christmas Bureau, call 604-814-3333.
